Resources and Testimonials

Resources

Early Permanence in the Regional Adoption Agencies

The overarching aim of early permanence is to give children stability in their lives by avoiding repeat moves and broken attachments. Instead of placing the uncertainty on children, adult carers are asked to manage the risks and possibility of loss.

This research project, commissioned by the Early Permanence Expert Working Group, focuses on how early permanence features within the Regional Adoption Agency model. It explores the developments being made in this area of practice, the challenges faced and ways to overcome them.

Findings from a longitudinal study of early placements

This report provides key findings from the 2017/18 extension study with 12 families
(10 drawn from the original sample) the first ever sample to be followed through
concurrent planning over such a long period.

Whilst numbers are low, the qualitative approach summarises the policy messages
for wider practice derived from the experience and testimony of early placement and
compared, where appropriate, to other wider studies.

Testimony

‘Essex Adoption Agency was very keen to develop an Early Permanence Programme. The advice and support we received from the Coram Early Permanence Centre was invaluable in helping us to develop our policies and practice in this area. Network Days have provided a stimulating forum in which we can share best practice, bring our worries and benefit from practitioners and other related professionals presentations. The practice in Essex is now firmly embedded, with over 30 children benefiting from being placed with dually approved carers, most from the point of reception into care.’ – Essex Adoption Agency

‘Adoption remains the best early permanence outcome for babies and young children who cannot be given the care they need within their own family network. For those children, every day matters and delay to achieving early permanence can be highly damaging’ – Anthony Douglas, CEO Cafcass